Caythorpe firefighter Neil Fritzsche wins national award

A CAYTHORPE firefighter won a Special Recognition Award at the BBC 999 Awards last night (Thursday).

Neil Fritzsche from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue was rewarded for going beyond the call of duty in exceptional circumstances.

He said: “I am proud and honoured to receive this award. But being part of the emergency services is not about individuals, it’s about teamwork, and I have worked in and with some of the best teams in the world during my career.

“On behalf of Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue, I am very proud of all our accomplishments here in the UK and abroad.”

Neil, who joined the fire service in 1975 as a retained firefighter, is a founding member of Lincolnshire’s Urban Search and Rescue Team. He played a pivotal role in the development of the UK International Search and Rescue Team, helping save many lives around the world.

Neil is also area manager responsible for response.

Executive Member for Community Safety, Cohesion and Diversity at Lincolnshire County Council Coun Peter Robinson, said: “Neil has devoted his entire career to keeping people safe. Not only has he spent 37 years protecting the communities of Lincolnshire, but he has also lent his expertise to numerous rescue operations all over the world following natural disasters.

“During his time with Fire and Rescue, Neil has demonstrated selfless dedication and a sense of public service. He’s played a vital role in responding to numerous major incidents, and his presence is always reassuring, his impact, invariably positive.”

Earlier this year, Neil was also awarded the Queen’s Fire Service Medal, which is presented to members of the UK or Commonwealth Fire Services for distinguished service or gallantry.